Fiction Family

The partnership between Switchfoot singer Jon Foreman and Nickel Creek guitarist Sean Watkins doesn't bear much likeness to either collaborator's former gig; it brims with sophisticated, delicate, multilayered pop. Though built over sweet, tight harmonies and acoustic guitars, their ability to throw in the kitchen sink -- a clinking duet of toy piano and trumpet to introduce "Elements Combined," the wash of reverb floating under the melody on "Mostly Prove Me Wrong," the galloping banjo of "Look for Me Baby" -- is dead brilliant. Highlights abound on this inspiring and promising debut.